If you’re a real estate salesperson or broker relocating to Arizona, the state licensing exam must be passed before being issued a license. But if you already hold such approval in another jurisdiction, Arizona real estate license reciprocity may be possible; this would enable you to forgo both national and state exams altogether and apply for your license with less time, effort, and expense.
Reciprocity States for a Real Estate License
Not all states offer reciprocity with Arizona; some have specific lists while others are more liberal. Generally speaking, those that offer reciprocity will let you skip both national and state portions of the exam and only take those portions that pertain to their laws and regulations.
What States Does Arizona Provide Real Estate License Reciprocity With?
Operating in multiple states is an invaluable advantage for real estate agents. Whether you plan to relocate your business, or just want to work with clients who live outside your home jurisdiction, real estate reciprocity can make the process smoother.
Real estate license reciprocity comes in five distinct levels, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. In the ideal scenario, full reciprocity exists which enables agents to transfer their out-of-state license with minimal requirements.
Partial reciprocity allows an agent to fulfill the state-specific portion of their licensing exam and pre-licensing requirements in their target state, but these types of agreements are limited, only applying to 12 out of 50 states.
Arizona is a very strict state and does not offer any real estate license reciprocity with other states. If you plan to move to Arizona, you will have to go through the full set of requirements to get a real estate license before you can practice.
Can I Transfer My Arizona Real Estate License to Another State?
Are you an Arizona real estate agent considering moving to another state and wondering if your AZ license can transfer? The answer to this question depends on whether the new jurisdiction offers reciprocity or portability laws.
Reciprocity: States that offer reciprocity agreements allow real estate agents from other states to quickly and easily complete the licensing process without finishing all pre-licensing requirements in their home state. This is especially helpful for those moving between two states who wish to practice in both.
Typically, reciprocity agreements require only a minimal amount of education and examination for agents from other states who meet certain criteria. On the other hand, some states offer more stringent reciprocity requirements and require full educational credentials as part of their qualification process.
The only state that will recognize your Arizona real estate license is Nevada. If you move to any other state, be prepared to complete the necessary education and meet the requirements to obtain your new real estate license.
How Do I Transfer My Real Estate License to Arizona?
If you currently hold an out-of-state real estate license and are considering moving to Arizona, you may be wondering how to transfer it. The process is the same as getting an Arizona real estate license since the state doesn’t offer reciprocity with any other state.
What Are the Steps to Acquire an Arizona Real Estate License?
Generally, you’ll need to attend an accredited school and complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education. This includes taking a six-hour contract writing course as required by Arizona’s department of real estate. After passing both sections of the state licensing exam and passing a background check with Public Safety Arizona, you will be ready for licensing with ease!
There are a few online real estate schools that let you take courses from home or the office at your own pace, ensuring you’re always prepared for your licensing exam. Plus, some even provide mobile-first courses – ideal for busy professionals on the go!
The Real Estate Commission in Arizona
After you’ve finished taking the state course and passed the exam, you can start prepping to sell real estate in Arizona. This includes filling out a Disciplinary Actions Disclosure Form that lists any previous convictions, felonies, or misdemeanors. Furthermore, you need your fingerprint clearance card from DPS as well as passing a background check before being granted your license.
Unfortunately, Arizona is not a state that offers license reciprocity for real estate agents. If you plan to move to the state or take your license elsewhere, be aware that you will basically be starting over when it comes to the real estate license process.

